As schools prepare to reopen, a grave concern arises.  How do we keep everyone safe?Parents and providers have been struggling with a potentially life altering problem: How do we get our special needs population to wear masks, properly wash hands, understand social distancing, and keep hands off their faces?  How can we safely reintroduce children and adults with disabilities into a changed world?

Research indicates that behavioral protocols can be effectively implemented to teach life skills.

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Pre-Covid, these skills were addressed at schools as part of a special education curricula, particularly in self-contained programs.  As educators/therapists, we teach our students and consumers health skills such as: toilet training, washing hands,personal space, etc.  Some individuals learn quickly, others will take longer to acquire skills.  A well-developed protocol, data collection,modifications,  flexibility and teamwork will make this happen.

Like any other skill, wearing a mask can be taught.

We also know that some of our students and consumers won’t tolerate it. When challenges arise, there are other ways to go about it. Like every goal, it must be tailored to your child.  Each individual presents with unique needs, including sensory issues that prevent them from utilizing a generic approach to learning such critical skills.  We also need to accept the fact that not every individual with special needs will be open another intolerable experience.  I always tell parents that giving up is not an option. Yet, we need to be smart and respectful about it.  We work with what we have and go from there.    

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